The Toledo Post of the Ohio State Highway Patrol is warning drivers about the dangers of driving in winter weather and is offering some tips on what drivers should do in the event of a vehicle breakdown or crash.

From December 2012 through March 2013, 18,779 crashes occurred on snow, ice or slush-covered roadways killing 42 people and injuring 5,253. Speed-related factors were reported as a cause in 56 percent of these crashes.

In the event of inclement weather, the OSHP is urging motorists to:

-Allow extra time to get to their destination

-Maintain a safe distance between their vehicle and the traffic ahead

-Pay close attention to bridges and overpasses, as they are often the first to freeze over

-Drive slowly, as everything, including accelerating, turning and braking, take longer on snow-covered roadways

"In case of a vehicle breakdown, motorists should turn on their hazard warning lights, safely position the vehicle as far off the road as possible, call #677 for assistance and remain in the vehicle until help arrives," explained Lt. William Bowers, commander of the Toledo Post.

Troopers further suggest that if you get stuck in snow, make sure your tail pipe is free of all snow and debris, to decrease your chance of carbon monoxide poisoning.

Prepare your vehicle for winter driving by ensuring the following are all in working order:

-Battery

-Cooling system

-Tires

-Wipers

-Defroster

Drivers are also encouraged to carry the following winter car kit items in their vehicle in case of a breakdown:

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Under the mayor's plan, a Regional Water Commission would be established, with an appointed representative from each community that purchases water from the city on the commission. The city of Toledo would have two representatives.Toledo would retain the Collins Park Water Treatment plant and city council would have the final say over rates that the Regional Water Commission puts forth.

Under the mayor's plan, a Regional Water Commission would be established, with an appointed representative from each community that purchases water from the city on the commission. The city of Toledo would have two representatives.Toledo would retain the Collins Park Water Treatment plant and city council would have the final say over rates that the Regional Water Commission puts forth.

Memorial Day serves as the unofficial kickoff to summer-type activities, and there is no shortage this long weekend of events ranging from the solemn to the celebratory. SATURDAY WTOL's River Run 10K starts at 7:30 a.m. on Summit Street Cedar Point Shores opens for the weekend at 9:30 a.m. Toledo's Memorial Day Parade steps off Downtown at 10:30 a.m. Fort Meigs' First Siege 1813 events; fort opens at 9:30 a.m. Wounded Warrior softball game takes place at Mercy Health Filed, 525 ...

Memorial Day serves as the unofficial kickoff to summer-type activities, and there is no shortage this long weekend of events ranging from the solemn to the celebratory. SATURDAY WTOL's River Run 10K starts at 7:30 a.m. on Summit Street Cedar Point Shores opens for the weekend at 9:30 a.m. Toledo's Memorial Day Parade steps off Downtown at 10:30 a.m. Fort Meigs' First Siege 1813 events; fort opens at 9:30 a.m. Wounded Warrior softball game takes place at Mercy Health Filed, 525 ...